'There’s a Reason We Don't Talk About Them Much:' The Case Against Wagons

Hyundai isn't pursuing wagons because sales keep slipping.

Its SUVs are more profitable than wagons.

The long-roof i30 is still available in certain markets.

It was only a couple of months ago that Mercedes’ Head of Exterior Design gave his blunt take on the state of the wagon in 2026. Robert Lešnik said “nobody is buying them in America” and the “Chinese don’t understand them.” Now, a mainstream automaker is also sounding the alarm for estates as the segment continues to decline. Hyundai’s European boss believes the future looks bleak for this body style as SUVs continue to gain traction.

Speaking with Auto Express, Xavier Martinet said Hyundai isn’t spending money on new wagons because there isn’t enough customer interest to justify fresh investment. Echoing Mercedes’ position, Hyundai has also concluded that buyers in the United States and China are not interested in wagons. The company still caters to wagon enthusiasts in select markets where the i30 Estate remains available, but the model is beginning to show its age after nearly a decade on sale.